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Throughout 2012, Santa Monica, Calif., has been home to intense debate over the separation of church and state. Following atheist furor over a traditional nativity scene, the city decided to ban religious speech in Palisades Park. We’ve already reported about the live nativity loophole Christians used to ensure that symbols pertaining to Jesus’ birth appeared in the park — but some believers also resorted to another tactic: Staging a “Nativity Flash Mob” inside of a local shopping center.

In an effort to prove that celebrating the Christmas season in its true form is a societal right, Christians from Metro Calvary Chapel in Santa Monica and others from around the Orange County area put on an unexpected holiday show at the Santa Monica Place Mall on Dec. 16th.

Photo Credit: YouTube

What started out as one woman caroling beautifully in the middle of the mall quickly evolved into a much larger spectacle (all captured on video, of course). Within seconds, others joined her in singing traditional Christmas hymns, while another woman placed an empty manger near the group.

Then, just as “O Come, All Ye Faithful” began being belted out, Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus — in full costume — appeared near the manger. Before long, other characters associated with the nativity emerged, as a crowd began circling the spectacle with cameras.

A video that captures the show, which extended for more than six minutes, culminates with a round of applause from shoppers and passer-byes who stopped to see it.

Watch the “Nativity Flash Mob,” below:

A press release about the endeavor claims that, rather than get angry about atheist attacks on Santa Monica’s 60-year nativity tradition, those involved in the flash mob decided “to do what matters most.” And what is that, you ask? Telling the Christmas story to as many people as possible.

“What matters is that the Christmas story needs to be told – it’s part of the Great Commission for Christians,” the press release reads. “And this time of year, Christians should be able to celebrate freely, carry on the message, and not be hiding for fear of offending someone.”

Judging from the applause inside Santa Monica Place Mall, it didn’t sound as though anyone was offended. For more about the ongoing nativity drama in Santa Monica, read TheBlaze’s intensive coverage.